Since we hadn't been to Victoria, BC in 19 years, we decided it might be fun to hop across the Strait of Juan de Fuca and spend a few days there and check out the sights. Since we were already in Port Angeles, we decided to park the truck and walk on to the Black Ball Ferry. We hadn't been on this ferry or across the Strait, so it seemed like it would be a good opportunity. Here are some shots on our way to Victoria -- as you can see, it was a nice day. The trip is approximately 60 minutes depending on how calm or windy the Strait is.
As Jared was out taking photos of the ferry and its surroundings, he got an unexpected sighting -- a pod of Orcas. People actually chase these magnificent creatures with boats, so the fact that it is a bonus view when you are just taking the ferry is always spectacular. Jared's estimation was that there were approximately 5 of them -- 3 adults and 2 babies -- although it is tough to know for sure.
And they disappeared as quickly as they showed up...
Here we are arriving in the Victoria Harbor. Victoria has done a fantastic job of using the harbor to its fullest. Lots of things happening -- ferries coming in and out, water taxis, boat tours, lots of restaurants, and tourism for the bustling city.
After arriving in the harbor, we grabbed our luggage and headed to the Empress Hotel. It is right by the harbor and is walking distance. The last time we were here, we didn't stay here, but this time we decided it was a must.
The grounds are always immaculate and full of color and texture.
Lucky for us, our room was ready when we arrived. We checked in and headed out to do some exploring. We wanted to maximize the good weather. One of our stops was Fan Tan Alley...it is a little Harry Potter-esque, but if you didn't know it was there, you would walk right past it.
Lots of ecletic shops and restaurants, even some interesting grocery stores with unique ingredients.
As we were heading back down Government Street, we came across the McPherson Playhouse -- snapped this shot for Kristina's brother and family since they live in McPherson, KS. We thought it was a funny coincidence.
As we traversed Government Street, all we saw was person after person with these chocolate dipped cones. Everyone looked spectacular and all you could hear is how wonderful they were. As we continued walking, we discovered that they were coming from the candy shop. Let's just say, it is well worth a stop if you are in area -- they have 12 different dippings and they ice cream is super creamy and rich. And just for reference, these that we are holding up in the photos are SMALL.
As we walked towards the Empress, this time we kept going and headed to the Government building to take some photos. It too is accessible via the harbor and you can definitely see the British influence in its architecture.
The detail was quite unique and everywhere you looked, you saw something that you hadn't seen the last time you looked.
And a statue of Victoria's namesake...
After the Government building, we decided to head down next to the harbor and walk around it. There is a lot to see, and again, we were trying to maximize the good weather because we didn't know how long it would last.
A shot up Government Street, the Empress is on the right and the harbor is on the left in this photo.
The Black Ball Ferry had arrived again and was getting ready to depart for Port Angeles again.
Another place to stay right on the harbor, a candidate for next time. Apparently they have a wonderful tea service as well.
A few shot of the water taxi...we didn't know it, but we would utilize this water taxi service later in the evening. It is a great way to get across the harbor.
A cute houseboat community is in the harbor...
Near the houseboat community, there is a Fisherman's Wharf with tons of restaurants and shops. Again, a very cool place to walk through and by this time (and after walking through), night was upon us and we decided to take the last water taxi back across the harbor. Lucky we made the last one...
Just as we were arriving on the Empress side of the harbor, it was dark enough that the lights around the Government Building lit up. It was pretty cool to see from a distance as we were coming back across...
After a good night's rest and breakfast at the Empress, we embarked on a bus to Buchart Gardens. We visited this area the last time we were here and we were so impressed that we had to go back. Let's just say, it didn't disappoint. If you are in Victoria, the Buchart Gardens are a MUST.
We try, but pictures just don't do it justice...
How Jennie Buchart envisioned this after using the land for their cement business -- it just truly amazing. If you don't know the story, you should check out this link.
And the gardens are varied -- many different themes. And their grandson continued the tradition with the addition of the water features.
Everywhere you look, there is something more to see...
Just an example of how large that Dahlia is (using Kristina's hand as a guide).
What's a garden without statues and ponds...
Amazing trees as well as flowers...
Venue is used for lots of different events as well.
Peekaboo to Tod Inlet.
Another beautiful day both the weather and the scenery...
Wednesday morning was our last day in Victoria, we were heading out on the ferry that afternoon, but before we left, we had to have the Tea Service at the Empress. It was outstanding and we had fun doing it. Definitely give it a try!
Back to the United States...until next time Canada! It was fun!
